US11814822B2 - Plumbing fitting - Google Patents

Plumbing fitting Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US11814822B2
US11814822B2 US17/279,826 US201917279826A US11814822B2 US 11814822 B2 US11814822 B2 US 11814822B2 US 201917279826 A US201917279826 A US 201917279826A US 11814822 B2 US11814822 B2 US 11814822B2
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
receptacle
inlet
plumbing fitting
outlet
plumbing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active, expires
Application number
US17/279,826
Other versions
US20210340741A1 (en
Inventor
Samuel White
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems Ltd
Original Assignee
Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems Ltd filed Critical Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems Ltd
Publication of US20210340741A1 publication Critical patent/US20210340741A1/en
Assigned to AALBERTS INTEGRATED PIPING SYSTEMS LIMITED reassignment AALBERTS INTEGRATED PIPING SYSTEMS LIMITED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WHITE, SAMUEL
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US11814822B2 publication Critical patent/US11814822B2/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
    • E03B7/00—Water main or service pipe systems
    • E03B7/07—Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons, valves, in the pipe systems
    • E03B7/072—Arrangement of flowmeters
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
    • E03B7/00—Water main or service pipe systems
    • E03B7/07—Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons, valves, in the pipe systems
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
    • E03B7/00—Water main or service pipe systems
    • E03B7/07—Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons, valves, in the pipe systems
    • E03B7/074—Arrangement of water treatment devices
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K27/00—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor
    • F16K27/06—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor of taps or cocks
    • F16K27/065—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor of taps or cocks with cylindrical plugs
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K3/00—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing
    • F16K3/22—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with sealing faces shaped as surfaces of solids of revolution
    • F16K3/24—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with sealing faces shaped as surfaces of solids of revolution with cylindrical valve members
    • F16K3/26—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with sealing faces shaped as surfaces of solids of revolution with cylindrical valve members with fluid passages in the valve member
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K31/00—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices
    • F16K31/44—Mechanical actuating means
    • F16K31/52—Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam
    • F16K31/528—Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam with pin and slot
    • F16K31/5286—Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam with pin and slot comprising a sliding valve
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K35/00—Means to prevent accidental or unauthorised actuation
    • F16K35/06—Means to prevent accidental or unauthorised actuation using a removable actuating or locking member, e.g. a key
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K43/00—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose
    • F16K43/001—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose an auxiliary valve being actuated independently of the main valve
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K43/00—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose
    • F16K43/001—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose an auxiliary valve being actuated independently of the main valve
    • F16K43/003—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose an auxiliary valve being actuated independently of the main valve the auxiliary valve being a rotary valve
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K43/00—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose
    • F16K43/005—Auxiliary closure means in valves, which in case of repair, e.g. rewashering, of the valve, can take over the function of the normal closure means; Devices for temporary replacement of parts of valves for the same purpose an auxiliary valve closing automatically when the main valve is being disassembled

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a plumbing fitting, and to a plumbing system comprising the plumbing fitting.
  • the present invention relates to domestic plumbing fittings and systems.
  • a plumbing system is one that conveys fluid to, through and from buildings using pipes, fixtures and other components.
  • Plumbing fittings are used in a plumbing system to perform various functions.
  • An example of a known plumbing fitting is a pressure independent control valve (PICV), which has a mechanism adapted to regulate and control fluid flow and pressure, and to control pressure differential across the valve.
  • PICV pressure independent control valve
  • Most plumbing systems include a variety of plumbing fittings, each configured for a specific function.
  • a plumbing fitting connected to a plumbing system may need to be maintained or repaired.
  • a s plumbing systems convey fluid therethrough at elevated pressure, to maintain or repair the plumbing fitting it is standard practice to isolate the fitting (e.g. by closing connector flow valves at opposite ends of the fitting) from the system and then carry out maintenance or repair work on the fitting.
  • This can be challenging, time consuming and expensive, and may require additional tools or even trained personnel (e.g. a plumber).
  • this can introduce problems to the system, such as pressure imbalances, which can be time consuming and expensive to repair.
  • a plumbing fitting comprising: a body having a flow path extending therethrough; a receptacle disposed in the body, the receptacle arranged to releasably receive a mechanism; wherein the receptacle is movable between a first, operational, position in which the flow path extends through the receptacle and the mechanism, and a second position in which the flow path bypasses the mechanism whereby in the second position the mechanism can be released from the receptacle whilst a fluid flows through the flow path.
  • the mechanism in the first, operational, position can perform its predetermined function (e.g. to regulate and control fluid flow and pressure).
  • the mechanism In the second position the mechanism can be accessed for maintenance or repair, whilst the fluid bypasses the mechanism and continues to flow through the flow path.
  • the mechanism can be maintained or repaired without isolating the plumbing fitting from the plumbing system to which it is connected. This can be more time and cost efficient than isolating the plumbing fitting, which is required to maintain or repair known plumbing fittings. Also, in embodiments of the present invention, the mechanism can be accessed for maintenance or repair without additional plumbing tools and/or without trained personnel. This can increase time and cost efficiency relative to known plumbing fittings. Moreover, in embodiments of the present invention, the mechanism can be maintained or repaired using fewer steps than are required to maintain or repair known plumbing fittings. This can reduce the risk of introducing complications to the plumbing system to which the plumbing fitting is connected.
  • embodiments of the present invention provide a plumbing fitting that can be more conveniently and efficiently maintained or repaired than known plumbing fittings.
  • the body may be a manifold.
  • the body may comprise two or more connectors, each having a bore therethrough.
  • Each connector may be adapted to connect to a pipe of a plumbing system.
  • Each connector may be disposed on an outside of the body.
  • There may be an inlet connector having an inlet bore.
  • There may be an outlet connector having an outlet bore.
  • the body may comprise a cavity in which the receptacle is disposed. The cavity may be accessible through an opening provided on the body.
  • the body may comprise at one end an opening to the cavity, and at the opposite end a closed base.
  • the flow path may extend between the inlet bore and the outlet bore.
  • the flow path may be adapted to convey a liquid through the plumbing fitting.
  • the flow path may be adapted to convey a liquid at non-ambient or elevated pressures.
  • the receptacle may be a housing arranged to releasably house the mechanism.
  • the housing may be arranged to releasably enclose a proportion of the mechanism within it.
  • the housing may be arranged to releasably enclose at least 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95% of the volume of the mechanism within it.
  • the receptacle may be movable between the first, operational, position and the second position manually, mechanically and/or electronically.
  • the receptacle may be movable between the first, operational, position and the second position using movement means.
  • the movement means may be provided between the body and the receptacle.
  • the movement means may be provided between a surface of the body cavity and an outer surface of the receptacle.
  • the movement means may comprise a slide mechanism.
  • the slide mechanism may comprise a guide and a slide that is slidable in the guide.
  • the slide mechanism may be adapted to constrain movement of the receptacle between the first, operational, position and the second position.
  • the slide mechanism may prevent the receptacle from being removed or inadvertently ejected from the body.
  • the movement means may operable manually, mechanically and/or electronically. Any other suitable movement means may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art.
  • the receptacle may comprise a cavity adapted to releasably receive the mechanism.
  • the receptacle cavity may comprise a screw thread.
  • the screw thread may correspond to a screw thread on the mechanism.
  • the receptacle may comprise two or more apertures.
  • the apertures may comprise an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture.
  • the inlet aperture may align with the inlet bore.
  • the outlet aperture may align with the outlet bore.
  • fluid in the first, operational, position fluid may flow into the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the inlet aperture and the mechanism, then through the outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
  • the inlet aperture may be displaced from the inlet bore.
  • the outlet aperture may be displaced from the outlet bore.
  • the flow path through the body may be directed around the receptacle.
  • fluid in the second position may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then around the receptacle, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
  • the receptacle may comprise two or more secondary apertures.
  • the secondary apertures may be provided at respective ends of a bypass path.
  • the bypass path may extend through the receptacle but may be isolated from the mechanism.
  • There may be a secondary inlet aperture and a secondary outlet aperture.
  • fluid in use, in the first, operational, position fluid may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the inlet aperture and the mechanism, then through the outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
  • fluid in use, in the secondary position fluid may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the secondary inlet aperture, then through the secondary outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
  • the receptacle may comprise a chamfered section around which fluid can flow in the second position.
  • the chamfered section may be adapted to optimise fluid flow through the flow path and around the receptacle in the second position.
  • the chamfered section may be displaced from the inlet bore in the first, operational, position.
  • the chamfered section may be in alignment with the inlet bore in the second position.
  • the chamfered section may be provided between the inlet aperture and the base of the receptacle.
  • the chamfered section may comprise a first portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inlet bore.
  • the chamfered section may comprise a second portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle.
  • the plumbing fitting may comprise sealing means.
  • the scaling means may be adapted to prevent inadvertent leakage of fluid.
  • the sealing means may be provided between the body and the receptacle.
  • the sealing means may be provided on the receptacle and/or on the body.
  • the sealing means may be provided on an outer surface of the receptacle and/or on a surface of the body cavity.
  • the or each sealing member may be a sealing ring.
  • the sealing means may comprise one or more first sealing members, one or more second sealing members and/or one or more third sealing members.
  • the or each first sealing member may be arranged substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle.
  • the or each first sealing member may be provided between the receptacle cavity opening and the inlet and outlet apertures.
  • the or each first sealing member may be adapted to prevent leakage around the receptacle and out of the body cavity opening.
  • the or each first sealing member may be outside of the body cavity.
  • the or each second sealing member may be arranged between the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture.
  • the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that a portion of the or each second sealing member is provided between the inlet aperture and the chamfered section.
  • the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that another portion of the or each second sealing member is provided between the outlet aperture and the receptacle cavity opening.
  • the or each second sealing member may be arranged between the inlet bore and the outlet bore. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that a portion of the or each second sealing member is arranged between the inlet bore and the body base. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that another portion of the or each second sealing member is arranged between the outlet bore and the body cavity opening. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be adapted to prevent fluid from escaping from the inlet bore to the outlet bore around the receptacle, instead of following the intended route through the mechanism within the receptacle.
  • the or each second sealing member In the second position the or each second sealing member may be arranged between the body cavity opening and the inlet and outlet bores. In the second position the or each second sealing member may be adapted to seal against leakage out of the body cavity opening.
  • the or each third sealing member may be arranged below the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture.
  • the or each third sealing member may be arranged substantially parallel to a line extending between the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture.
  • the or each third sealing member may be arranged between the inlet and outlet apertures and the receptacle base.
  • the or each third sealing member may be arranged at an oblique angle (e.g. 45 degrees) to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle. In the first, operational, position, the or each third sealing member may be arranged between the body base and the inlet outlet bores. In the first, operational, position the or each third scaling member may be adapted to prevent leakage into the body cavity below the receptacle.
  • the or each third sealing member may be arranged between the inlet and outlet bores and the body cavity opening. In the second position, the or each third sealing member may be adapted to seal against flow into the receptacle inlet and outlet apertures.
  • the plumbing fitting may comprise a lock configured to releasably lock the receptacle to the body in the first, operational, position. In this way, the lock may prevent the receptacle from inadvertently ejecting from the body. This could otherwise occur, e.g. due to a pressure surge.
  • the lock may comprise one or more first locking portions adapted to interlock with one or more second locking portions. The or each first locking portion may be provided on the body. The or each second locking portion may be provided on the receptacle. Any other suitable lock may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of other locks include clips and other suitable fastening means.
  • the plumbing fitting may comprise the mechanism.
  • the mechanism may be releasably mounted in the receptacle.
  • the mechanism may be releasably mounted in the cavity provided in the receptacle.
  • the mechanism may be releasably mounted in the receptacle by securing means.
  • the securing means may comprise a screw and thread connection, twist connection or push-fit connection. Any other suitable securing means may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art.
  • the mechanism may be manually, mechanically and/or electronically releasable from the receptacle.
  • the mechanism may be a valve, filter, measurement device or combination thereof.
  • the mechanism may be selected from an anti-back-flow valve, commissioning valve, control valve, serviceable valve, metering valve, balancing valve, regulating valve, mixing valve, thermostatic valve, safety valve, isolation valve, dosing valve, service valve, filtration device, measuring device and combination thereof.
  • the mechanism may be a pressure independent control valve (PICV).
  • PICV pressure independent control valve
  • the second position may be a flushing position, servicing position, maintenance position, bypass position and/or mechanism replacement position.
  • a plumbing system comprising a plurality of pipes connected to the plumbing fitting according to the first aspect of the present invention.
  • Non-limiting examples of plumbing systems include water supply systems (e.g. water supply systems for internal use in domestic or industrial buildings), drain-waste vent systems, sewage systems, septic systems, greywater recovery systems, treatment systems, hydronic systems, domestic heating systems and industrial heating systems.
  • FIG. 1 shows an isometric side view of a plumbing fitting according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the first, operational, position;
  • FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the first, operational position;
  • FIG. 3 shows an isometric side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second positon;
  • FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position;
  • FIG. 5 shows an isometric side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position and the mechanism is released from the receptacle;
  • FIG. 6 shows an exploded cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position and the mechanism is released from the receptacle;
  • FIG. 7 shows a part, cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in a first, operational, position, and sealing rings are shown;
  • FIG. 8 shows an alternative, cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in a first, operational, position, and a slide mechanism is shown.
  • a plumbing fitting 1 comprises a body 2 having a flow path 3 extending therethrough; a receptacle 4 disposed in the body 2 ; and a functional mechanism 5 releasably received in the receptacle 4 .
  • the mechanism may be any suitable mechanism, as desired in order to carry out a particular function.
  • the mechanism may be a valve, filter or measurement device; such as an anti-back-flow valve, commissioning valve, control valve, serviceable valve, metering valve, balancing valve, regulating valve, mixing valve, thermostatic valve, safety valve, isolation valve, dosing valve, service valve, filtration device or measuring device.
  • the mechanism 5 is that of a pressure independent control valve (PICV).
  • PICV pressure independent control valve
  • the receptacle 4 can be manually (i.e. by hand) moved between a first, operational, position (as shown in FIGS. 1 , 2 , 7 and 8 ) in which the flow path 3 extends through the receptacle 4 and the mechanism 5 , and a second position (as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 ) in which the flow path 3 bypasses the mechanism 5 whereby in the second position the mechanism 5 can be released from the receptacle 4 whilst a fluid flows through the flow path 3 .
  • the body 2 has a connector inlet 6 and a connector outlet 7 disposed on opposing, outer sides thereof, arranged co-axially, with their axis at around 45 degrees to the axis of the body cavity, the receptacle 4 and the mechanism 5 .
  • the connectors 6 , 7 are adapted to connect to pipes of a plumbing system (not shown).
  • the flow path 3 extends through and between the connectors 6 , 7 , via an inlet bore in the inlet connector 6 to an outlet bore in the outlet connector 7 .
  • the body 2 has at one end an opening to a cavity, the opening defined by an annular lip 10 ; and at an opposite end a closed base 11 .
  • the body cavity is adapted to receive the receptacle 4 , to thereby provide a secure fit between the body 2 and the receptacle 4 .
  • the receptacle 4 has an inlet aperture 12 and an outlet aperture 13 disposed on opposing, outer sides thereof.
  • the inner diameters of the inlet aperture 12 and outlet aperture 13 are substantially the same as the inner diameters of the inlet bore and the outlet bore.
  • the receptacle 4 has a substantially cylindrical form, with at one end an opening to a cavity for releasably receiving the mechanism 5 and at an opposite end a closed base 16 .
  • An annular rim 17 defines the receptacle opening.
  • a chamfered section 18 is provided between the inlet aperture 12 and the base 16 .
  • the chamfered section 18 is adapted to optimise fluid flow through the flow path 3 in the second position. In use, in the second position, fluid can flow around the chamfered section 18 .
  • the chamfered section 18 comprises a first portion arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bores, and a second sloping portion arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4 . In the first, operational, position, the chamfered section 18 is displaced from the inlet bore, towards the body base 1 . In the second position the chamfered section 18 is in alignment with the inlet bore.
  • the receptacle 4 is receivable base-first into the body cavity.
  • the receptacle base 16 is adjacent the body base 11 .
  • the receptacle 4 has sealing means adapted to prevent inadvertent leakage of fluid between the body 2 and the receptacle 4 .
  • the sealing means comprises an upper ring 8 , a first lower ring 9 a and a second lower ring 9 b.
  • the upper ring 8 is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the receptacle 4 , towards the annular rim 17 and above the inlet and outlet apertures 12 , 13 .
  • the upper ring 8 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4 . In the first, operational, position the upper ring 8 prevents leakage around the receptacle 4 and out of the body opening. In the second (flushing) position the upper ring 8 is outside of the body cavity.
  • the first lower ring 9 a and the second lower ring 9 b are provided on an outer circumferential surface of the receptacle 4 .
  • the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the inlet 12 and the outlet 13 , substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4 , such that a portion of the first lower ring 9 a is provided between the inlet aperture and the chamfered section 18 , and another portion of the first lower ring 9 a is provided between the outlet aperture 13 and the annular rim 17 .
  • the second lower ring 9 b is arranged below the inlet 12 and the outlet 13 , adjacent the chamfered section 18 , at an angle of about 45 degrees to the axis of the receptacle 4 and substantially parallel to the line between the apertures 12 , 13 , between both apertures 12 , 13 and the receptacle base 16 .
  • the first lower ring 9 a is arranged, in the first, operational, position, between the inlet bore and outlet bore, such that a portion of the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the inlet bore and the body base 11 and another portion of the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the outlet bore and the body cavity opening. This prevents fluid escaping from the inlet bore to the outlet bore around the receptacle 4 , instead of following the intended route through the mechanism 5 within the receptacle 4 . In the second position, the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the body cavity opening and the inlet bore and the outlet bore, sealing against leakage out of the body cavity opening.
  • the second sealing ring 9 b is arranged at an angle, in the first, operational, position, between the body base 11 and both the inlet bore and the outlet bore so as to prevent leakage into the body cavity below the receptacle 11 .
  • the second scaling ring 9 b is arranged between the two bores 6 , 7 and the body cavity opening to seal against flow into the receptacle inlet and outlet apertures 12 , 13 .
  • the plumbing fitting 1 is provided with a slide mechanism adapted to facilitate movement between the first, operational, position and the second position.
  • the slide mechanism comprises a protrusion 14 provided on the body 2 , which protrusion 14 projects into a guide 15 provided on a corresponding outer surface of the receptacle 4 .
  • the guide 15 is closed at opposite ends thereof, to prevent movement of the receptacle 4 beyond first and second end-points 15 a , 15 b .
  • the guide 15 is moved axially relative to the slide 14 , and the protrusion moves from the first end-point 15 a to the second end-point 15 b .
  • the protrusion 14 is a screw which is adapted to correspond with a first indent at the first end-point 15 a and with a second indent at the second end-point 15 b .
  • the indents project deeper into the outer surface of the receptacle 4 than the guide 15 .
  • the screw 14 can be screwed via a thread in an aperture through the body 2 into the first indent to thereby secure the receptacle 4 in the first position, or into the second indent to thereby secure the receptacle 4 in the second position.
  • the screw 14 can be unscrewed from the first indent and the second indent such that the receptacle 4 can be moved between the first, operational, position and the second position, with the screw 14 confined within the guide 15 and by the respective end points 15 a , 15 b.
  • the plumbing fitting 1 is provided with a twist lock 19 comprising first lock portions 20 provided on the body 2 ; and corresponding second lock portions 21 provided on the receptacle 4 .
  • the second lock portions 21 are adapted to interlock with the first lock portions 20 .
  • the twist lock 19 can be released by untwisting the receptacle 4 from the body 2 , such that the first lock portions 20 are released from the second lock portions 21 .
  • the plumbing fitting 1 comprises a screw 22 and thread 23 arrangement adapted to releasably secure the mechanism 5 to the receptacle 4 (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 ). Once the mechanism 5 is secured to the receptacle 4 , the receptacle 4 can be moved from the second position to the first, operational, position.
  • the receptacle 4 comprises a number of internal sealing surfaces arranged to receive sealing rings 24 of the mechanism 5 .
  • the mechanism sealing rings 24 prevent leakage of fluid between the mechanism 5 and the receptacle cavity.
  • fluid in the first, operational, position can flow via the flow path 3 , into the inlet bore in the inlet connector 6 , then through the inlet aperture 12 and the mechanism 5 , then through the outlet aperture 13 , then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector 7 .
  • the mechanism 5 can perform its predetermined function (e.g. in the case of a pressure independent control valve (PICV) mechanism, to control and regulate flow, and to control the pressure differential across the PICV).
  • PICV pressure independent control valve
  • the annular rim 17 is spaced from the annular lip 10 ; and the inlet 12 and the apertures 12 , 13 are displaced from the inlet bore and the outlet bores, such that the chamfered section 18 is in alignment with the inlet bore.
  • fluid in the second position can flow via the flow path 3 through the inlet bore in the inlet connector 6 , then around the receptacle 4 , then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector 7 .
  • fluid cannot enter the inlet 12 or the outlet 13 , which are displaced from the inlet and outlet bores, and are sealed off by the sealing means 9 b.
  • the mechanism 5 in the second position the mechanism 5 can be accessed for maintenance or repair, as desired or required, whilst fluid flows through the flow path 3 , without isolating/disconnecting the plumbing fitting 1 from the system to which it is attached.
  • most regulating valves rely on the user removing the working components prior to flushing/cleaning the system. This involves draining the system in order to remove the sensitive components. If these components are not removed then flushing through them can clog the small orifices with debris or damage the workings.
  • the system described allows the user to withdraw the regulating mechanism to a flushing position which is isolated from the flow. This protects the regulating mechanism from damage during flushing. The system does not need to be drained therefore simplifying and speeding up the process.

Abstract

A plumbing fitting with a body having a flow path extending therethrough, and a receptacle disposed in the body is disclosed. The receptacle is arranged to releasably receive a mechanism is movable between a first operational position in which the flow path extends through the receptacle and the mechanism, and a second position in which the flow path bypasses the mechanism. In the second position, the mechanism can be released from the receptacle while a fluid flows through the flow path.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a plumbing fitting, and to a plumbing system comprising the plumbing fitting. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to domestic plumbing fittings and systems.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
A plumbing system is one that conveys fluid to, through and from buildings using pipes, fixtures and other components.
Plumbing fittings are used in a plumbing system to perform various functions. An example of a known plumbing fitting is a pressure independent control valve (PICV), which has a mechanism adapted to regulate and control fluid flow and pressure, and to control pressure differential across the valve. Most plumbing systems include a variety of plumbing fittings, each configured for a specific function.
Over time, or due to a fault, a plumbing fitting connected to a plumbing system may need to be maintained or repaired. A s plumbing systems convey fluid therethrough at elevated pressure, to maintain or repair the plumbing fitting it is standard practice to isolate the fitting (e.g. by closing connector flow valves at opposite ends of the fitting) from the system and then carry out maintenance or repair work on the fitting. This can be challenging, time consuming and expensive, and may require additional tools or even trained personnel (e.g. a plumber). Moreover, this can introduce problems to the system, such as pressure imbalances, which can be time consuming and expensive to repair.
It is an object of the present invention to solve one or more of the abovementioned or other problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plumbing fitting comprising: a body having a flow path extending therethrough; a receptacle disposed in the body, the receptacle arranged to releasably receive a mechanism; wherein the receptacle is movable between a first, operational, position in which the flow path extends through the receptacle and the mechanism, and a second position in which the flow path bypasses the mechanism whereby in the second position the mechanism can be released from the receptacle whilst a fluid flows through the flow path.
In use, in the first, operational, position the mechanism can perform its predetermined function (e.g. to regulate and control fluid flow and pressure). In the second position the mechanism can be accessed for maintenance or repair, whilst the fluid bypasses the mechanism and continues to flow through the flow path.
Accordingly, in embodiments of the present invention, the mechanism can be maintained or repaired without isolating the plumbing fitting from the plumbing system to which it is connected. This can be more time and cost efficient than isolating the plumbing fitting, which is required to maintain or repair known plumbing fittings. Also, in embodiments of the present invention, the mechanism can be accessed for maintenance or repair without additional plumbing tools and/or without trained personnel. This can increase time and cost efficiency relative to known plumbing fittings. Moreover, in embodiments of the present invention, the mechanism can be maintained or repaired using fewer steps than are required to maintain or repair known plumbing fittings. This can reduce the risk of introducing complications to the plumbing system to which the plumbing fitting is connected.
Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide a plumbing fitting that can be more conveniently and efficiently maintained or repaired than known plumbing fittings.
The body may be a manifold. The body may comprise two or more connectors, each having a bore therethrough. Each connector may be adapted to connect to a pipe of a plumbing system. Each connector may be disposed on an outside of the body. There may be an inlet connector having an inlet bore. There may be an outlet connector having an outlet bore. The body may comprise a cavity in which the receptacle is disposed. The cavity may be accessible through an opening provided on the body. The body may comprise at one end an opening to the cavity, and at the opposite end a closed base.
The flow path may extend between the inlet bore and the outlet bore. The flow path may be adapted to convey a liquid through the plumbing fitting. The flow path may be adapted to convey a liquid at non-ambient or elevated pressures.
The receptacle may be a housing arranged to releasably house the mechanism. The housing may be arranged to releasably enclose a proportion of the mechanism within it. The housing may be arranged to releasably enclose at least 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95% of the volume of the mechanism within it.
The receptacle may be movable between the first, operational, position and the second position manually, mechanically and/or electronically. The receptacle may be movable between the first, operational, position and the second position using movement means. The movement means may be provided between the body and the receptacle. The movement means may be provided between a surface of the body cavity and an outer surface of the receptacle. The movement means may comprise a slide mechanism. The slide mechanism may comprise a guide and a slide that is slidable in the guide. The slide mechanism may be adapted to constrain movement of the receptacle between the first, operational, position and the second position. In this way the slide mechanism may prevent the receptacle from being removed or inadvertently ejected from the body. The movement means may operable manually, mechanically and/or electronically. Any other suitable movement means may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art.
The receptacle may comprise a cavity adapted to releasably receive the mechanism. For example, the receptacle cavity may comprise a screw thread. The screw thread may correspond to a screw thread on the mechanism.
The receptacle may comprise two or more apertures. The apertures may comprise an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture.
In the first, operational, position the inlet aperture may align with the inlet bore. In the first, operational, position the outlet aperture may align with the outlet bore.
In use, in the first, operational, position fluid may flow into the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the inlet aperture and the mechanism, then through the outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
In the second position the inlet aperture may be displaced from the inlet bore. In the second position the outlet aperture may be displaced from the outlet bore. In the second position the flow path through the body may be directed around the receptacle.
In use, in the second position fluid may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then around the receptacle, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
In alternative embodiments the receptacle may comprise two or more secondary apertures. The secondary apertures may be provided at respective ends of a bypass path. The bypass path may extend through the receptacle but may be isolated from the mechanism. There may be a secondary inlet aperture and a secondary outlet aperture.
In such alternative embodiments, in use, in the first, operational, position fluid may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the inlet aperture and the mechanism, then through the outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
In such alternative embodiments, in use, in the secondary position fluid may flow through the inlet bore in the inlet connector, then through the secondary inlet aperture, then through the secondary outlet aperture, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector.
The receptacle may comprise a chamfered section around which fluid can flow in the second position. The chamfered section may be adapted to optimise fluid flow through the flow path and around the receptacle in the second position. The chamfered section may be displaced from the inlet bore in the first, operational, position. The chamfered section may be in alignment with the inlet bore in the second position. The chamfered section may be provided between the inlet aperture and the base of the receptacle. The chamfered section may comprise a first portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inlet bore. The chamfered section may comprise a second portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle.
The plumbing fitting may comprise sealing means. The scaling means may be adapted to prevent inadvertent leakage of fluid. The sealing means may be provided between the body and the receptacle. The sealing means may be provided on the receptacle and/or on the body. The sealing means may be provided on an outer surface of the receptacle and/or on a surface of the body cavity. The or each sealing member may be a sealing ring. The sealing means may comprise one or more first sealing members, one or more second sealing members and/or one or more third sealing members.
The or each first sealing member may be arranged substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle. The or each first sealing member may be provided between the receptacle cavity opening and the inlet and outlet apertures.
In the first, operational, position the or each first sealing member may be adapted to prevent leakage around the receptacle and out of the body cavity opening.
In the second position the or each first sealing member may be outside of the body cavity.
The or each second sealing member may be arranged between the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture. The or each second sealing member may be arranged such that a portion of the or each second sealing member is provided between the inlet aperture and the chamfered section. The or each second sealing member may be arranged such that another portion of the or each second sealing member is provided between the outlet aperture and the receptacle cavity opening.
In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be arranged between the inlet bore and the outlet bore. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that a portion of the or each second sealing member is arranged between the inlet bore and the body base. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be arranged such that another portion of the or each second sealing member is arranged between the outlet bore and the body cavity opening. In the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be adapted to prevent fluid from escaping from the inlet bore to the outlet bore around the receptacle, instead of following the intended route through the mechanism within the receptacle.
In the second position the or each second sealing member may be arranged between the body cavity opening and the inlet and outlet bores. In the second position the or each second sealing member may be adapted to seal against leakage out of the body cavity opening.
The or each third sealing member may be arranged below the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture. The or each third sealing member may be arranged substantially parallel to a line extending between the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture. The or each third sealing member may be arranged between the inlet and outlet apertures and the receptacle base.
In the first, operational, position, the or each third sealing member may be arranged at an oblique angle (e.g. 45 degrees) to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle. In the first, operational, position, the or each third sealing member may be arranged between the body base and the inlet outlet bores. In the first, operational, position the or each third scaling member may be adapted to prevent leakage into the body cavity below the receptacle.
In the second position, the or each third sealing member may be arranged between the inlet and outlet bores and the body cavity opening. In the second position, the or each third sealing member may be adapted to seal against flow into the receptacle inlet and outlet apertures.
The plumbing fitting may comprise a lock configured to releasably lock the receptacle to the body in the first, operational, position. In this way, the lock may prevent the receptacle from inadvertently ejecting from the body. This could otherwise occur, e.g. due to a pressure surge. The lock may comprise one or more first locking portions adapted to interlock with one or more second locking portions. The or each first locking portion may be provided on the body. The or each second locking portion may be provided on the receptacle. Any other suitable lock may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of other locks include clips and other suitable fastening means.
The plumbing fitting may comprise the mechanism. The mechanism may be releasably mounted in the receptacle. The mechanism may be releasably mounted in the cavity provided in the receptacle. The mechanism may be releasably mounted in the receptacle by securing means. The securing means may comprise a screw and thread connection, twist connection or push-fit connection. Any other suitable securing means may be used, as will be known to a person skilled in the art. The mechanism may be manually, mechanically and/or electronically releasable from the receptacle.
The mechanism may be a valve, filter, measurement device or combination thereof. The mechanism may be selected from an anti-back-flow valve, commissioning valve, control valve, serviceable valve, metering valve, balancing valve, regulating valve, mixing valve, thermostatic valve, safety valve, isolation valve, dosing valve, service valve, filtration device, measuring device and combination thereof. In particular, the mechanism may be a pressure independent control valve (PICV).
The second position may be a flushing position, servicing position, maintenance position, bypass position and/or mechanism replacement position.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plumbing system comprising a plurality of pipes connected to the plumbing fitting according to the first aspect of the present invention.
Non-limiting examples of plumbing systems include water supply systems (e.g. water supply systems for internal use in domestic or industrial buildings), drain-waste vent systems, sewage systems, septic systems, greywater recovery systems, treatment systems, hydronic systems, domestic heating systems and industrial heating systems.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, an embodiment thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 shows an isometric side view of a plumbing fitting according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the first, operational, position;
FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the first, operational position;
FIG. 3 shows an isometric side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second positon;
FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position;
FIG. 5 shows an isometric side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position and the mechanism is released from the receptacle;
FIG. 6 shows an exploded cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in the second position and the mechanism is released from the receptacle;
FIG. 7 shows a part, cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in a first, operational, position, and sealing rings are shown; and
FIG. 8 shows an alternative, cross sectional side view of the plumbing fitting of FIG. 1 , wherein the plumbing fitting is configured in a first, operational, position, and a slide mechanism is shown.
With reference to FIGS. 1-8 , a plumbing fitting 1 comprises a body 2 having a flow path 3 extending therethrough; a receptacle 4 disposed in the body 2; and a functional mechanism 5 releasably received in the receptacle 4. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanism may be any suitable mechanism, as desired in order to carry out a particular function. For example, the mechanism may be a valve, filter or measurement device; such as an anti-back-flow valve, commissioning valve, control valve, serviceable valve, metering valve, balancing valve, regulating valve, mixing valve, thermostatic valve, safety valve, isolation valve, dosing valve, service valve, filtration device or measuring device. In this particular embodiment, the mechanism 5 is that of a pressure independent control valve (PICV).
The receptacle 4 can be manually (i.e. by hand) moved between a first, operational, position (as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 7 and 8 ) in which the flow path 3 extends through the receptacle 4 and the mechanism 5, and a second position (as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 ) in which the flow path 3 bypasses the mechanism 5 whereby in the second position the mechanism 5 can be released from the receptacle 4 whilst a fluid flows through the flow path 3.
The body 2 has a connector inlet 6 and a connector outlet 7 disposed on opposing, outer sides thereof, arranged co-axially, with their axis at around 45 degrees to the axis of the body cavity, the receptacle 4 and the mechanism 5. The connectors 6, 7 are adapted to connect to pipes of a plumbing system (not shown). The flow path 3 extends through and between the connectors 6, 7, via an inlet bore in the inlet connector 6 to an outlet bore in the outlet connector 7. The body 2 has at one end an opening to a cavity, the opening defined by an annular lip 10; and at an opposite end a closed base 11. The body cavity is adapted to receive the receptacle 4, to thereby provide a secure fit between the body 2 and the receptacle 4.
As shown in FIGS. 2, 4 and 6 , the receptacle 4 has an inlet aperture 12 and an outlet aperture 13 disposed on opposing, outer sides thereof. The inner diameters of the inlet aperture 12 and outlet aperture 13 are substantially the same as the inner diameters of the inlet bore and the outlet bore. The receptacle 4 has a substantially cylindrical form, with at one end an opening to a cavity for releasably receiving the mechanism 5 and at an opposite end a closed base 16. An annular rim 17 defines the receptacle opening.
A chamfered section 18 is provided between the inlet aperture 12 and the base 16. The chamfered section 18 is adapted to optimise fluid flow through the flow path 3 in the second position. In use, in the second position, fluid can flow around the chamfered section 18. The chamfered section 18 comprises a first portion arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bores, and a second sloping portion arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4. In the first, operational, position, the chamfered section 18 is displaced from the inlet bore, towards the body base 1. In the second position the chamfered section 18 is in alignment with the inlet bore.
The receptacle 4 is receivable base-first into the body cavity. When the plumbing fitting 1 is configured in the first, operational, position, the receptacle base 16 is adjacent the body base 11.
With reference to FIG. 7 , the receptacle 4 has sealing means adapted to prevent inadvertent leakage of fluid between the body 2 and the receptacle 4. The sealing means comprises an upper ring 8, a first lower ring 9 a and a second lower ring 9 b.
The upper ring 8 is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the receptacle 4, towards the annular rim 17 and above the inlet and outlet apertures 12, 13. The upper ring 8 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4. In the first, operational, position the upper ring 8 prevents leakage around the receptacle 4 and out of the body opening. In the second (flushing) position the upper ring 8 is outside of the body cavity.
The first lower ring 9 a and the second lower ring 9 b are provided on an outer circumferential surface of the receptacle 4. The first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the inlet 12 and the outlet 13, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 4, such that a portion of the first lower ring 9 a is provided between the inlet aperture and the chamfered section 18, and another portion of the first lower ring 9 a is provided between the outlet aperture 13 and the annular rim 17. The second lower ring 9 b is arranged below the inlet 12 and the outlet 13, adjacent the chamfered section 18, at an angle of about 45 degrees to the axis of the receptacle 4 and substantially parallel to the line between the apertures 12, 13, between both apertures 12, 13 and the receptacle base 16.
The first lower ring 9 a is arranged, in the first, operational, position, between the inlet bore and outlet bore, such that a portion of the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the inlet bore and the body base 11 and another portion of the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the outlet bore and the body cavity opening. This prevents fluid escaping from the inlet bore to the outlet bore around the receptacle 4, instead of following the intended route through the mechanism 5 within the receptacle 4. In the second position, the first lower ring 9 a is arranged between the body cavity opening and the inlet bore and the outlet bore, sealing against leakage out of the body cavity opening.
The second sealing ring 9 b is arranged at an angle, in the first, operational, position, between the body base 11 and both the inlet bore and the outlet bore so as to prevent leakage into the body cavity below the receptacle 11. In the second position, the second scaling ring 9 b is arranged between the two bores 6, 7 and the body cavity opening to seal against flow into the receptacle inlet and outlet apertures 12, 13.
With reference to FIG. 8 , the plumbing fitting 1 is provided with a slide mechanism adapted to facilitate movement between the first, operational, position and the second position. The slide mechanism comprises a protrusion 14 provided on the body 2, which protrusion 14 projects into a guide 15 provided on a corresponding outer surface of the receptacle 4. The guide 15 is closed at opposite ends thereof, to prevent movement of the receptacle 4 beyond first and second end- points 15 a, 15 b. Thus, when the receptacle 4 is moved between the first, operational, position and the second position, the guide 15 is moved axially relative to the slide 14, and the protrusion moves from the first end-point 15 a to the second end-point 15 b. The protrusion 14 is a screw which is adapted to correspond with a first indent at the first end-point 15 a and with a second indent at the second end-point 15 b. The indents project deeper into the outer surface of the receptacle 4 than the guide 15. The screw 14 can be screwed via a thread in an aperture through the body 2 into the first indent to thereby secure the receptacle 4 in the first position, or into the second indent to thereby secure the receptacle 4 in the second position. Alternatively, the screw 14 can be unscrewed from the first indent and the second indent such that the receptacle 4 can be moved between the first, operational, position and the second position, with the screw 14 confined within the guide 15 and by the respective end points 15 a, 15 b.
The plumbing fitting 1 is provided with a twist lock 19 comprising first lock portions 20 provided on the body 2; and corresponding second lock portions 21 provided on the receptacle 4. The second lock portions 21 are adapted to interlock with the first lock portions 20. Thus, in the first, operational, position, upon twisting the receptacle 4 relative to the body 2, such that the first lock portions 20 interlock with the second lock portions 21, the receptacle 4 can be secured to the body 2. By the reverse process, the twist lock 19 can be released by untwisting the receptacle 4 from the body 2, such that the first lock portions 20 are released from the second lock portions 21.
The plumbing fitting 1 comprises a screw 22 and thread 23 arrangement adapted to releasably secure the mechanism 5 to the receptacle 4 (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 ). Once the mechanism 5 is secured to the receptacle 4, the receptacle 4 can be moved from the second position to the first, operational, position.
As shown in FIG. 8 , the receptacle 4 comprises a number of internal sealing surfaces arranged to receive sealing rings 24 of the mechanism 5. The mechanism sealing rings 24 prevent leakage of fluid between the mechanism 5 and the receptacle cavity.
With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 7 and 8 , where the plumbing fitting 1 is configured in the first, operational, position, the annular rim 17 lies flush with the annular lip 10; and the inlet bore and outlet bore are in alignment with the apertures 12, 13.
In use, in the first, operational, position fluid can flow via the flow path 3, into the inlet bore in the inlet connector 6, then through the inlet aperture 12 and the mechanism 5, then through the outlet aperture 13, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector 7. In this way, the mechanism 5 can perform its predetermined function (e.g. in the case of a pressure independent control valve (PICV) mechanism, to control and regulate flow, and to control the pressure differential across the PICV).
With reference to FIGS. 3 to 6 , where the plumbing fitting 1 is configured in the second position, the annular rim 17 is spaced from the annular lip 10; and the inlet 12 and the apertures 12, 13 are displaced from the inlet bore and the outlet bores, such that the chamfered section 18 is in alignment with the inlet bore.
In use, in the second position fluid can flow via the flow path 3 through the inlet bore in the inlet connector 6, then around the receptacle 4, then through the outlet bore in the outlet connector 7. Hence, fluid cannot enter the inlet 12 or the outlet 13, which are displaced from the inlet and outlet bores, and are sealed off by the sealing means 9 b.
In this way, in the second position the mechanism 5 can be accessed for maintenance or repair, as desired or required, whilst fluid flows through the flow path 3, without isolating/disconnecting the plumbing fitting 1 from the system to which it is attached. In particular, most regulating valves rely on the user removing the working components prior to flushing/cleaning the system. This involves draining the system in order to remove the sensitive components. If these components are not removed then flushing through them can clog the small orifices with debris or damage the workings. The system described allows the user to withdraw the regulating mechanism to a flushing position which is isolated from the flow. This protects the regulating mechanism from damage during flushing. The system does not need to be drained therefore simplifying and speeding up the process.

Claims (16)

The invention claimed is:
1. A plumbing fitting comprising:
a body having a flow path extending therethrough;
a receptacle disposed in the body, the receptacle arranged to releasably receive a mechanism;
wherein the receptacle is movable between a first; operational, position in which the flow path extends through the receptacle and the mechanism, and a second position in which the flow path bypasses the mechanism whereby in the second position the mechanism can be released from the receptacle whilst a fluid flows through the flow path; wherein the mechanism is a control or regulating valve.
2. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the body comprises an inlet connector and an outlet connector, each connector being adapted to connect to a plumbing system; wherein the inlet connector has an inlet bore therethrough, and the outlet connector has an outlet bore therethrough.
3. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 2 wherein the receptacle comprises two or more apertures; wherein the apertures comprise an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture; wherein in the first, operational, position, the inlet aperture aligns with the inlet bore and the outlet aperture aligns with the outlet bore; and in the second position the inlet aperture is displaced from the inlet bore and the outlet aperture is displaced from the outlet bore.
4. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plumbing fitting comprises sealing means for preventing inadvertent leakage of fluid; and wherein the sealing means comprises one or more first sealing members, one or more second sealing members, and/or one or more third sealing members.
5. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 4, wherein the body comprises a body cavity in which the receptacle is disposed, wherein the body comprises at one end an opening to the body cavity, and at the opposite end a closed base, wherein in the first, operational, position the or each first sealing member is adapted to prevent leakage around the receptacle and out of the body cavity opening.
6. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 5 wherein the body comprises an inlet connector and an outlet connector, each connector being adapted to connect to a plumbing system; wherein the inlet connector has an inlet bore therethrough, and the outlet connector has an outlet bore therethrough, wherein in the first, operational, position, the or each second sealing member may be adapted to prevent fluid from escaping from the inlet bore to the outlet bore around the receptacle, instead of following the flow path through the mechanism within the receptacle; and in the second position the or each second sealing member is adapted to seal against leakage out of the body cavity opening.
7. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 4 wherein the body comprises a cavity in which the receptacle is disposed and the receptacle comprises two or more apertures; wherein the apertures comprise an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture; wherein in the first, operational, position the or each third sealing member is adapted to prevent leakage into the body cavity below the receptacle; and in the second position the or each third sealing member is adapted to seal against flow into the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture.
8. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the body comprises a cavity in which the receptacle is disposed and wherein the body comprises at one end an opening to the body cavity, and at the opposite end a closed base.
9. A plumbing fitting as claimed in a claim 1 wherein the receptacle comprises a cavity adapted to releasably receive the mechanism.
10. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the receptacle comprises two or more apertures; wherein the apertures comprise an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture.
11. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the receptacle comprises a chamfered section around which fluid can flow in the second position; and wherein the chamfered section comprises a first portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of an inlet bore; and a second portion arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle.
12. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plumbing fitting comprises a lock configured to releasably lock the receptacle to the body in the first, operational, position; and wherein the lock comprises one or more first locking portions adapted to interlock with one or more second locking portions, to thereby lock the receptacle to the body in the first, operational, position.
13. A plumbing fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second position is a flushing position, servicing position, maintenance position, bypass position and/or mechanism replacement position.
14. A plumbing fitting according to claim 1 wherein the receptacle is a housing arranged to releasably enclose at least 40% of the volume of the mechanism within it.
15. A plumbing fitting according to claim 1 wherein the receptacle moves axially between the first and second positions.
16. A plumbing system comprising a plurality of pipes connected to the plumbing fitting according to claim 1; and wherein the system is a water supply system, drain-waste vent system, sewage system, septic system, greywater recovery system, treatment system, hydronic system, domestic heating system or industrial heating system.
US17/279,826 2018-09-27 2019-09-17 Plumbing fitting Active 2040-06-22 US11814822B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1815768.5A GB2577524B (en) 2018-09-27 2018-09-27 Plumbing fitting
GB1815768 2018-09-27
GB1815768.5 2018-09-27
PCT/GB2019/052612 WO2020065268A1 (en) 2018-09-27 2019-09-17 Plumbing fitting

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20210340741A1 US20210340741A1 (en) 2021-11-04
US11814822B2 true US11814822B2 (en) 2023-11-14

Family

ID=64109003

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US17/279,826 Active 2040-06-22 US11814822B2 (en) 2018-09-27 2019-09-17 Plumbing fitting
US17/413,987 Pending US20220056676A1 (en) 2018-09-27 2019-12-09 Plumbing fitting

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US17/413,987 Pending US20220056676A1 (en) 2018-09-27 2019-12-09 Plumbing fitting

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (2) US11814822B2 (en)
EP (2) EP3856982A1 (en)
GB (2) GB2577524B (en)
WO (2) WO2020065268A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2615604A (en) * 2022-02-15 2023-08-16 Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems Ltd Plumbing fitting

Citations (44)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB691430A (en) 1951-03-21 1953-05-13 Rheolaveur General Constructio Improvements in rotary valves
FR1233159A (en) 1959-05-28 1960-10-12 Utilisation Ration Gaz Liquefied gas cylinder valve
GB1014246A (en) 1963-11-13 1965-12-22 Audco Ltd Improvements in and relating to plug valves
FR2041861A5 (en) 1969-04-21 1971-02-05 Cousin Claude
US3669148A (en) 1969-11-24 1972-06-13 Morton Norwich Products Inc Bypass valve for fluid treating assembly
US3669147A (en) 1971-02-18 1972-06-13 Sperry Rand Corp Power transmission
US3683966A (en) 1970-04-02 1972-08-15 Offshore Systems Inc Three position valve
US3854696A (en) 1971-12-14 1974-12-17 Young J & Cunningham Ltd Fluid flow valve
US3891001A (en) 1973-12-14 1975-06-24 Irlin H Botnick Shutoff valve with cleanout filter
FR2412768A1 (en) 1977-12-21 1979-07-20 Mm Srl Shut-off valve made of plastics parts - has sliding sleeve controlled by spindles guided by helical slots to block flow through end
US4253481A (en) 1979-05-07 1981-03-03 Gilmore Valve Company Cushioned shuttle valve
DE3526581A1 (en) 1985-07-25 1987-02-05 Gag Grubenausbau Gmbh Shuttle valve
US4664152A (en) 1986-04-04 1987-05-12 Mara Michael R O Flow control valve with replaceable cartridge subassembly having multi-tubular construction
DE19540580A1 (en) 1995-10-31 1997-05-07 Honeywell Ag Three=way valve with valve actuator and by=pass, used e.g. in heating and conditioning units
US5628492A (en) 1996-02-02 1997-05-13 Lee; Chung H. Faucet connector device
US6123094A (en) 1996-07-29 2000-09-26 Silvano Breda Single lever valve and cartridge with integral mixing chamber and divided waterway
US20020084068A1 (en) 1998-08-14 2002-07-04 Werner Hugger Three-way heating system valve with heat exchanger pressure regulation
DE20204658U1 (en) 2002-03-22 2003-07-31 Watts Dumser Gmbh & Co Kg Shut-off valve for central heating or air conditioning system has sloping groove) in its casing, valve body having pin mounted on it whose end slides along groove when it is turned, raising and lowering it
US20040194822A1 (en) 2003-04-03 2004-10-07 Silvano Breda Diverter valve with removable cartridge including integral atmospheric type vacuum breaker and check
CN2859117Y (en) 2005-09-22 2007-01-17 安徽铜都阀门有限公司 Track type zero friction butterfly valve
CN201078483Y (en) 2007-08-08 2008-06-25 安徽铜都阀门有限公司 Hoisting type single pair tight seal cock valve
US20090020470A1 (en) * 2000-04-20 2009-01-22 Bassett Laurence W Keyed filter assembly
US20090230063A1 (en) 2008-03-14 2009-09-17 Hawkins Charles W Standpipe with integrated regulator valve
CN202074068U (en) 2011-05-07 2011-12-14 浙江万龙机械有限公司 Valve rod for guide-slot type lifting-rod ball valve
KR101168755B1 (en) 2012-06-12 2012-07-26 주식회사 신영정보기술 Differential pressure control valve
CN202371205U (en) 2011-12-19 2012-08-08 科福龙阀门集团有限公司 Rolling orbit sphere valve
CN203309176U (en) 2013-06-20 2013-11-27 球豹阀门有限公司 Rail-mounted hard seal ball valve
US20140083951A1 (en) 2012-03-30 2014-03-27 Cummins Filtration Ip, Inc. Filter Having a Filter Cartridge, and Corresponding Filter Cartridge
CN203532865U (en) 2013-10-11 2014-04-09 王泉卫 Filtering three-way ball valve
US8950052B2 (en) * 2011-09-15 2015-02-10 Whirlpool Corporation Method of installing a filter unit
US20150143989A1 (en) 2011-10-20 2015-05-28 Gea Tuchenhagen Gmbh Actuating Device for a Rotatable Closure Part of a Valve
WO2015173811A1 (en) 2014-05-14 2015-11-19 S.P.C. Tech Ltd. Fluid pipe hub
CN205013774U (en) 2015-10-08 2016-02-03 江苏神通阀门股份有限公司 Check valve
CN205401805U (en) 2016-03-14 2016-07-27 太仓优尼泰克精密机械有限公司 Double track way groove ball valve sealed firmly
EP2818776B1 (en) 2013-06-24 2016-08-03 Vir Valvoindustria Ing. Rizzio - S.P.A. Bypass valve
KR20170043334A (en) 2015-10-13 2017-04-21 허남욱 Valve apparatus for an inclined gate of a hot runner injection mold
WO2017137965A1 (en) 2016-02-11 2017-08-17 Ceadesign Srl Improved manifold for dispensing units
GB2548810A (en) 2016-03-23 2017-10-04 Peerless Gas Controls Ltd Gas valve
CN206708463U (en) 2017-05-23 2017-12-05 济宁鲁威液压科技股份有限公司 Big flow pressure regulation two-way inserts check valve
CN206708390U (en) 2017-05-23 2017-12-05 济宁鲁威液压科技股份有限公司 Large-flow-rate pilot formula electromagnet cut off valve
CN107489785A (en) 2017-07-19 2017-12-19 浙江大学 A kind of detachable ball-valve structure
US20180065067A1 (en) 2015-03-12 2018-03-08 Hengst Se & Co. Kg Filter having a filter bypass valve, and filter cartridge therefor
KR101867954B1 (en) 2018-02-21 2018-06-20 주식회사 정아유압 Rotary actuator
US10584040B2 (en) * 2017-10-06 2020-03-10 Whirlpool Corporation Filter cartridge

Patent Citations (44)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB691430A (en) 1951-03-21 1953-05-13 Rheolaveur General Constructio Improvements in rotary valves
FR1233159A (en) 1959-05-28 1960-10-12 Utilisation Ration Gaz Liquefied gas cylinder valve
GB1014246A (en) 1963-11-13 1965-12-22 Audco Ltd Improvements in and relating to plug valves
FR2041861A5 (en) 1969-04-21 1971-02-05 Cousin Claude
US3669148A (en) 1969-11-24 1972-06-13 Morton Norwich Products Inc Bypass valve for fluid treating assembly
US3683966A (en) 1970-04-02 1972-08-15 Offshore Systems Inc Three position valve
US3669147A (en) 1971-02-18 1972-06-13 Sperry Rand Corp Power transmission
US3854696A (en) 1971-12-14 1974-12-17 Young J & Cunningham Ltd Fluid flow valve
US3891001A (en) 1973-12-14 1975-06-24 Irlin H Botnick Shutoff valve with cleanout filter
FR2412768A1 (en) 1977-12-21 1979-07-20 Mm Srl Shut-off valve made of plastics parts - has sliding sleeve controlled by spindles guided by helical slots to block flow through end
US4253481A (en) 1979-05-07 1981-03-03 Gilmore Valve Company Cushioned shuttle valve
DE3526581A1 (en) 1985-07-25 1987-02-05 Gag Grubenausbau Gmbh Shuttle valve
US4664152A (en) 1986-04-04 1987-05-12 Mara Michael R O Flow control valve with replaceable cartridge subassembly having multi-tubular construction
DE19540580A1 (en) 1995-10-31 1997-05-07 Honeywell Ag Three=way valve with valve actuator and by=pass, used e.g. in heating and conditioning units
US5628492A (en) 1996-02-02 1997-05-13 Lee; Chung H. Faucet connector device
US6123094A (en) 1996-07-29 2000-09-26 Silvano Breda Single lever valve and cartridge with integral mixing chamber and divided waterway
US20020084068A1 (en) 1998-08-14 2002-07-04 Werner Hugger Three-way heating system valve with heat exchanger pressure regulation
US20090020470A1 (en) * 2000-04-20 2009-01-22 Bassett Laurence W Keyed filter assembly
DE20204658U1 (en) 2002-03-22 2003-07-31 Watts Dumser Gmbh & Co Kg Shut-off valve for central heating or air conditioning system has sloping groove) in its casing, valve body having pin mounted on it whose end slides along groove when it is turned, raising and lowering it
US20040194822A1 (en) 2003-04-03 2004-10-07 Silvano Breda Diverter valve with removable cartridge including integral atmospheric type vacuum breaker and check
CN2859117Y (en) 2005-09-22 2007-01-17 安徽铜都阀门有限公司 Track type zero friction butterfly valve
CN201078483Y (en) 2007-08-08 2008-06-25 安徽铜都阀门有限公司 Hoisting type single pair tight seal cock valve
US20090230063A1 (en) 2008-03-14 2009-09-17 Hawkins Charles W Standpipe with integrated regulator valve
CN202074068U (en) 2011-05-07 2011-12-14 浙江万龙机械有限公司 Valve rod for guide-slot type lifting-rod ball valve
US8950052B2 (en) * 2011-09-15 2015-02-10 Whirlpool Corporation Method of installing a filter unit
US20150143989A1 (en) 2011-10-20 2015-05-28 Gea Tuchenhagen Gmbh Actuating Device for a Rotatable Closure Part of a Valve
CN202371205U (en) 2011-12-19 2012-08-08 科福龙阀门集团有限公司 Rolling orbit sphere valve
US20140083951A1 (en) 2012-03-30 2014-03-27 Cummins Filtration Ip, Inc. Filter Having a Filter Cartridge, and Corresponding Filter Cartridge
KR101168755B1 (en) 2012-06-12 2012-07-26 주식회사 신영정보기술 Differential pressure control valve
CN203309176U (en) 2013-06-20 2013-11-27 球豹阀门有限公司 Rail-mounted hard seal ball valve
EP2818776B1 (en) 2013-06-24 2016-08-03 Vir Valvoindustria Ing. Rizzio - S.P.A. Bypass valve
CN203532865U (en) 2013-10-11 2014-04-09 王泉卫 Filtering three-way ball valve
WO2015173811A1 (en) 2014-05-14 2015-11-19 S.P.C. Tech Ltd. Fluid pipe hub
US20180065067A1 (en) 2015-03-12 2018-03-08 Hengst Se & Co. Kg Filter having a filter bypass valve, and filter cartridge therefor
CN205013774U (en) 2015-10-08 2016-02-03 江苏神通阀门股份有限公司 Check valve
KR20170043334A (en) 2015-10-13 2017-04-21 허남욱 Valve apparatus for an inclined gate of a hot runner injection mold
WO2017137965A1 (en) 2016-02-11 2017-08-17 Ceadesign Srl Improved manifold for dispensing units
CN205401805U (en) 2016-03-14 2016-07-27 太仓优尼泰克精密机械有限公司 Double track way groove ball valve sealed firmly
GB2548810A (en) 2016-03-23 2017-10-04 Peerless Gas Controls Ltd Gas valve
CN206708463U (en) 2017-05-23 2017-12-05 济宁鲁威液压科技股份有限公司 Big flow pressure regulation two-way inserts check valve
CN206708390U (en) 2017-05-23 2017-12-05 济宁鲁威液压科技股份有限公司 Large-flow-rate pilot formula electromagnet cut off valve
CN107489785A (en) 2017-07-19 2017-12-19 浙江大学 A kind of detachable ball-valve structure
US10584040B2 (en) * 2017-10-06 2020-03-10 Whirlpool Corporation Filter cartridge
KR101867954B1 (en) 2018-02-21 2018-06-20 주식회사 정아유압 Rotary actuator

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
International Search Report and Written Opinion for corresponding PCT application No. PCT/GB2019/052612, dated Jan. 24, 2020.

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3899336A1 (en) 2021-10-27
GB201820706D0 (en) 2019-01-30
GB2577575B (en) 2023-08-02
WO2020128427A1 (en) 2020-06-25
EP3856982A1 (en) 2021-08-04
US20210340741A1 (en) 2021-11-04
US20220056676A1 (en) 2022-02-24
GB2577524B (en) 2021-01-20
GB2577575A (en) 2020-04-01
GB2577524A (en) 2020-04-01
GB201815768D0 (en) 2018-11-14
WO2020065268A1 (en) 2020-04-02

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7681596B2 (en) Isolation valve with valve in drain
US7621295B2 (en) System for controlling fluid flow to an appliance
US20080314466A1 (en) Valves for use with tankless water heater
KR102469631B1 (en) Telescopic attachment for magnetic filters
EP3332855B1 (en) Filtration and dirt-separation device
US11814822B2 (en) Plumbing fitting
EP0029368B1 (en) Method of insertion or removal of a valve plug
EP3789641A1 (en) Plumbing fitting with seal
EP3627017B1 (en) Breaker box assembly
US20200318859A1 (en) Water heater fitting for draining a water heater
EP2142829B1 (en) Tap
KR100865415B1 (en) Water supply device for branchicng of water pipe
US11846357B2 (en) Safety flow obstruction holder
US20170082230A1 (en) Low-Leak Hydraulic Connectors
KR100836672B1 (en) The cutoff valve for water pipe
US20230003006A1 (en) Sanitary fitting
RU2565128C2 (en) Valve and fitting connector with adapter element and method of bore diameter variation and selection for said valve and fitting connector
NZ757089B2 (en) Breaker box assembly
GB2612722A (en) Seal and plumbing fitting
AU702623B2 (en) Tap with backflow restriction device
KR20120046372A (en) Fluid leakage prevention device and connecting tube having the same

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION

AS Assignment

Owner name: AALBERTS INTEGRATED PIPING SYSTEMS LIMITED, UNITED KINGDOM

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:WHITE, SAMUEL;REEL/FRAME:058942/0595

Effective date: 20210820

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT RECEIVED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT VERIFIED

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE